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By Lizzy Chirkpi
Senator Okey Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has died. The Labour Party lawmaker, reportedly the sole remaining representative from Enugu State at the federal legislature, passed away on Tuesday in the United Kingdom where he had been receiving medical care. He had previously sought treatment in Germany before being transferred to the UK.
News has it that he was in the United Kingdom receiving treatment prior to his demise.
An elder statesman close to him, Chief Nkem Ossai, who confirmed the news, described late Ezea as a man with a heart of gold who will be greatly missed by his constituents.
He disclosed that the news has plunged Nsukka and the entire Enugu North zone into mourning. Residents and supporters have expressed shock over his sudden death, especially considering that he had recently recovered fully from a partial stroke three months ago.
He noted, “It’s a sad day. Nsukka has been thrown into mourning. Enugu North has lost a dedicated man who vowed to restore and develop his senatorial zone. The atmosphere has been sombre since the news broke.
“The loss of Senator Okey Ezea is a significant blow to the political landscape of Enugu State, and his contributions will be remembered by many.”
Although details surrounding his passing remain unclear, tributes have begun to flow across social media, with constituents, political associates, and supporters expressing shock over the loss.
Okey Ezea, widely known as “Ideke,” was a lawyer, businessman, and seasoned politician. Before entering the Senate in 2023, he was a prominent figure in Enugu’s opposition politics, having contested for governorship positions in previous election cycles. He served as Chairman of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) under President Muhammadu Buhari and was known for championing issues related to job creation, youth empowerment, and infrastructural development in Enugu North. His election under the Labour Party in 2023 was seen as a major upset in the state’s political landscape.
His death marks a significant loss for both his district and the Labour Party, with stakeholders describing him as a principled politician who maintained strong grassroots connections.